1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. CH Manuals
  4. Amplifier
  5. I1
  6. User manual

CH I1 User Manual

Universal integrated amplifier
Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
I1 Universal Integrated Amplifier
User Manual
Rev 1.0
I1 User Manual
1

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the I1 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for CH I1

Summary of Contents for CH I1

  • Page 1 I1 Universal Integrated Amplifier User Manual Rev 1.0 I1 User Manual...
  • Page 2 I1 User Manual Rev 1.0...
  • Page 3 Dear Valued Customer, We are honored that you chose the I1 Universal Integrated Amplifier for your audio system. Our team devoted every effort to design and manufacture this highest-quality versatile and future-proof product and is proud to present it to you. We wish you hours of enjoyment from your music collection with the I1 Universal Integrated Amplifier installed in your system.
  • Page 4 I1 User Manual Rev 1.0...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    2.4 External clock synchronization (SYNC_IO)........................12 2.5 MC cartridges phono input (PHONO_I1).........................13 3 System setup examples................................14 3.1 Sources connection: I1 + Ethernet streaming + Phono + D1 setup..................14 3.2 Bi-amplification: I1 + A1 setup............................15 3.3 Improved clock accuracy: I1 + T1 setup..........................16 4 Read carefully before use................................17...
  • Page 6 10.1 Only ever one clock master............................44 10.2 I1 without SYNC_IO board............................44 10.3 I1 and D1 with SYNC_IO board............................45 10.4 T1 + I1 and D1 with SYNC_IO board..........................47 10.5 I1 with USB_IN board+ Computer..........................48 10.6 I1 with ETHERNET_IN board+ Computer........................49 11 Troubleshooting..................................50 12 Specifications..................................52...

  • Page 7: Product Highlights

    However, the back of the unit is fitted with slots into which optional input boards can be fitted. The I1 can be customized to the requirements of a specific system.
  • Page 8 I1 main components (1) Audio speaker terminals (2) Factory-fitted monaural analog input boards. Can be optionally equipped with current mode phonostage module (3) Optional clock in/out synchronization board (4) Mains switch and power cord receptacle (on back panel) (5) Factory-fitted digital input board (6) Input slot.

  • Page 9: Modular Architecture And Slot-In Boards

    • There are five slots in the I1. Two of them can be populated with any combination of DIGITAL_IN and USB_IN boards. One of them is dedicated to the optional SYNC_IO board. Another one is factory fitted with a CONTROL_IN board but can be upgraded to a ETHERNET_IN board to enable Ethernet audio streaming capability.

  • Page 10: Power Amplifier Bias Adjustment

    Please note that the I1 can be also be configured as a pure 2-channel power amplifier where the audio signal remains in the analog domain with no A/D nor D/A conversion at all. In this mode the volume is fixed and the level is equivalent to a volume control set to no attenuation! This mode is to be used with an external volume control unit connected upstream to the I1.

  • Page 11: Power Supply

    1.7 Power supply The power supply of the I1 is a linear supply with multiple independent local regulations. It is based on an oversized magnetically shielded toroidal 1000 VA mains transformer. A secondary (also toroidal) transformer is used as Standby transformer to ensure green Standby mode, meeting the latest energy saving regulations.

  • Page 12: I1 Option Boards

    Two 75 Ohm Wordclock outputs complete the input/output capabilities of the SYNC_IO board. In a system where the I1 fitted with the SYNC_IO board is synchronized by a T1 Time Reference unit, the I1 needs to be set as clock slave by selecting SYNCHRO BNC 75 from the I1 clock source menu. Connect a 75 Ohm BNC cable (typically the CH Reference Clock-Link cable) between one of the T1 outputs and the I1 SYNC_IO board input connector.

  • Page 13: Mc Cartridges Phono Input (Phono_I1)

    In a system where a D1 connects via CH Link to the I1 (and both units are fitted with the SYNC_IO board), the recommended configuration is to set the I1 as clock master by selecting INTERNAL from the I1 clock source menu and by selecting SYNCHRO BNC 75 from the D1 clock source menu.

  • Page 14: System Setup Examples

    For the best audio performance, we recommend to connect the D1 SACD/CD Drive to the I1 using the proprietary CH Link cable. If both the I1 and the D1 are fitted with a SYNC_IO option board, then the I1 should be set as clock mater (clock source set to INTERNAL) and the D1 should be set to clock slave (clock source set to SYNCHRO BNC 75) and the connection should be done as shown below.

  • Page 15: Bi-Amplification: I1 + A1 Setup

    This setup allows the audio system to bi-amplify loudspeakers. An A1/M1 is used to create the second set of amplification stages. Bass and trebles are powered separately, the I1 supplying the trebles while the A1/M1 powers the bass. The XLR Pre Outputs are used to link the I1 preamplification output stage to the A1/M1 inputs.

  • Page 16: Improved Clock Accuracy: I1 + T1 Setup

    In this setup, the I1 needs to be equipped with the SYNC_IO option board. Connect the T1 BNC output 1 to the I1 SYNC input using a low capacitance 75 Ohms coaxial cable (typically the CH Clock_link Reference cable) and terminate the cable by activating the clock source to Sync BNC 75 Ohm from the I1 menu.

  • Page 17: Read Carefully Before Use

    ◦ four CH Support Discs Please store the packaging for future use. Check your I1 for any apparent damage. In case of a damage, immediately contact your authorized dealer. If your I1 is cold due to transport, please let it warm up to room temperature before powering it up.

  • Page 18: Mains Supply

     When cleaning the unit  During thunderstorms  When unused for long periods of time Besides, make sure your I1 is turned off when making connections (it is also highly recommended to turn off the rest of the system). 4.4 Transport and packaging The I1 must always be stored in its original packaging for transportation.

  • Page 19: Installation

    CH Support discs provided with the I1. To use this optimal coupling, simply go through the following steps: 1. Place the I1 unit on a stable base at its approximate final position, for instance on an audio rack. Make sure air is able to flow freely around the unit.
  • Page 20 If no CH Precision unit is to be stacked on top of the I1, screw the four top covers back. Otherwise, screw the four polymer stacking caps instead, and gently lay down the unit to be stacked on top of it. Repeat steps 3 to 7.

  • Page 21: Connections

    Connections This section provides information on how to connect the I1 to the rest of your audio system. I1 rear panel connections (1) Right channel negative speaker terminal (2) Right channel positive speaker terminal (3) Ethernet port for command interface [CONTROL board] or for Ethernet audio streaming and commands [optional NETWORK board]...

  • Page 22: Loudspeakers Outputs

    XLR are available to connect the I1 and the power amplifier. The I1's volume is applied to both its loudspeaker output and preamplifier output. The gain of the I1 amplification stage is identical to the default gain of CH Precision's A1 and M1 for seamless integration.

  • Page 23: Digital Audio Inputs (Digital_In)

    Ethernet port to a standard Ethernet Router (equipped with a wireless access point so it can communicate with the tablet). Use an Ethernet RJ45 Category 5 or better cable. Using the CH Android app, the I1 settings can be accessed and adjusted on the fly. If the ETHERNET_IN option boards is fitted, the Ethernet port adds UPnP/DLNA audio streaming capability to the I1.

  • Page 24: Mains Socket And Voltage Selection

    We provide two black sockets so users know where to "store" the jumper. All in all, a system should only ever need one jumper. In some instances where a system combines CH equipment and pieces of equipment from other brands that would be earthed internally at all times, there could be no need to connect a single jumper behind CH units.

  • Page 25: Operation

    Operation The I1 Universal Integrated Amplifier is operated either from the unit's front panel or from a tablet running the CH Control app. 7.1 Front panel Front panel elements (1) Standby LED (2) User control knob (dual concentric rotatory knob with push function)

  • Page 26: User Control Knob

    (2) Central knob rotate Left [<<C] (3) Central knob push. There are two types of push: Normal Push [NP] and Long Push [LP] (4) External ring rotate Right [E>>] (5) Central knob rotate Right [C>>] I1 User Manual Rev 1.0...

  • Page 27: I1 User Manual

    The I1 universal integrated amplifier is delivered with an infrared remote to control the unit's basic operation. The provided remote control is not intended to be used to configure the unit. All the settings of the I1 can be accessed from the unit’s front panel or by using the CH Control app.

  • Page 28: Changing The Remote Control Batteries

    (make sure to respect battery polarity), put the back cover back in place and tighten the screws. Two AAA batteries are required. Please recycle the old batteries or use rechargeable batteries. I1 User Manual Rev 1.0...

  • Page 29: Operating Modes

    Displayed elements depend on the user settings. In the example above, the I1 locks to a 44.1kHz digital audio stream coming on its AES ABU 1 input. The volume is set to -18.5dB, but the unit is muted. If not muted, the phase would be reversed. Finally, the I1 internal temperature is 42°C.

  • Page 30: Shortcut Mode

    7.5.2 Shortcut Mode The I1 universal integrated amplifier settings are accessible through a set of menus as described in the next sections. However, to allow quick access to the most frequently used configuration menu items, the I1 offers the concept of Shortcuts. Shortcuts are fully programmable and the user may choose almost any configuration parameter as a Shortcut.
  • Page 31 (2) Current value of the parameter. Default action is to exit (go back to Normal mode) (3) Arrow indicating External Rotate Right [E>>] (or Central Rotate Right [C>>]) (4) Next parameter value. If External Rotate Right [E>>] is applied, the unit enters into Menu mode Rev 1.0 I1 User Manual...

  • Page 32: Menu Mode

    The following illustration shows the elements of a the I1 SETUP Menu page, the entry point of the I1 menu structure. I1 SETUP screen items (1) Menu title. When entering a menu item, the title also shows the parent menu. If the AUDIO menu is entered, the title line would display I1 SETUP >> AUDIO.
  • Page 33 As an example, the following drawing shows the display elements of the I1 SETUP >> AUDIO sub-menu. I1 SETUP >> AUDIO menu items (1) Menu title. I1 SETUP >> AUDIO shows that the parent menu is I1 SETUP. By applying External Rotate Left [<<E], the unit returns to the parent menu.
  • Page 34 (2) The current Parameter Value is highlighted. Use Central Rotate Left/Right [<<C]/[C>>] to navigate through Parameter Values (3) Other possible Parameter Value(s). Number of other Parameter Value(s) depends on Parameter (4) Parameter for which the Parameter Value can be modified in the current menu. I1 User Manual Rev 1.0...

  • Page 35: The I1 Menus

    Please note that configuring your I1 can also be done on a tablet using the CH Control Android app. Please refer to chapter 6.8 for more information about how to link the I1 to your tablet. Besides, for more information about the CH Control app, please visit our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/chprecision) where you can watch a video describing the main features of the CH app.

  • Page 36: Input Menu

    (including its DSP) when another input is selected to minimize noise. In that case, the connected computer looses link to the I1 and its playback will stop as another input is selected. Keeping USB powered allows quicker playback switching between USB an other I1 inputs.

  • Page 37: Display Menu

    Temperature display off. LED ON/OFF Allows to select if the front panel LED is on or off when the I1 is on BRIGHTNESS NORMAL 10% to 100% by 10% steps Sets the display brightness when the unit is operated BRIGHTNESS DIMMED 0% to 30% by 10% steps...

  • Page 38: Network Settings Menu

    UPnP. WAKE-ON-LAN Connection to a router If No is selected, the I1 can't be woken up by the Only if PoE via its RJ-45 Ethernet app. Standby mode will consume less than 0.5W.

  • Page 39: Factory Menu

    PC5 Pre1 Pre1 is the default L1 infrared remote control setting. AMPLIFIER MODE Integrated amp When a preamplifier is used upfront of the I1, the latter can Power amp be reconfigured as a pure power amplifier. Rev 1.0 I1 User Manual...

  • Page 40: Firmware Update

    USB stick with files containing the new firmware. Use the FAT32 formatted USB 2.0 stick. Please note that some USB sticks might not be detected by the I1 USB port. CH Precision recommends the use of Sandisk USB 2.0 sticks like the one delivered with your unit.

  • Page 41: Emergency Firmware Update Procedure

    5. If the emergency firmware update procedure fails, try the same procedure again using a different USB stick. If the failure persists, turn off your unit and contact your authorized dealer for assistance. Note: The emergency firmware update procedure lasts 10-15 minutes, do NOT interrupt it! Rev 1.0 I1 User Manual...

  • Page 42: Clocking Considerations

    For more information on the SYNC_IO option board, please refer to chapter 2.4. When an I1 with no SYNC_IO board is used with a D1 SACD/CD drive, both audio data and clocks go from the D1 to the I1, whether the signal is conveyed via S/PDIF, AES/EBU, optical TOSLINK or the proprietary CH Link.
  • Page 43 (open padlock, no sound) onto the incoming audio signal but would detect the incoming sampling frequency, the clock source should be set to “SRC” for this input. The I1 will add an asynchronous sample rate conversion stage that has a wider locking range.

  • Page 44: T1 + I1 And D1 With Sync_Io Board

    CH Precision T1) is available, optimum performance is obtained when both the I1 and the D1 are clocked by the external clock generator who becomes the clock master of the system. Both I1 and D1 are clock slaves in this setup. The audio data goes from the D1 to the I1 and the synchronizing clock is distributed by the T1 to both units.

  • Page 45: I1 With Usb_In Board+ Computer

    A (computer side) to type B (I1 side) USB 2.0 cable. For more information on the USB_IN option board, please refer to chapter 2.3. Data flows from the computer to the I1, while the I1 sets the pace of the data transfer, thus being clock master.

  • Page 46: I1 With Ethernet_In Board+ Computer

    I1 must be connected to the same network. For more information on the ETHERNET_IN option board, please refer to chapter 2.2. UPnP protocol ensures that data flows from the music server to the I1 while the I1 sets the pace of the data transfer, thus being clock master.

  • Page 47: Troubleshooting

    Check the mains fuses in the AC power cord receptacle Remote control does not Move closer to the unit and try again. The I1 Standby LED should flicker when the remote is emitting work Change the batteries inside the remote control if required (Remote control LED does not illuminate)

  • Page 48: Specifications

    PCM up to 768kHz/32bits and native DSD up to 5.6448MHz/1bit Audio Streaming (optional) Ethernet Connects to a UPnP/DLNA compatible server. Use CH Android app to control Enables bit-exact, ultra low jitter playback of high resolution audio file directly from a computer...
  • Page 49 Should you dispose this component please do so in conformity with local and global legal and environmental regulations and according to best practices. We strongly encourage you to recycle any batteries used with this component. Rev 1.0 I1 User Manual...

Table of Contents